Google completes global rollout of RCS, end-to-end encryption coming next year

RCS is now available on Google Messages globally bringing modern chat features to the traditional SMS app.

Google Messages RCS. (Google)

Google said it has completed the global rollout of Rich Communication Services (RCS) for its Messages app. Google has been working with carriers in different countries to enable RCS in the Messages app. It first rolled out RCS in the UK and France, and later expanded it to the US.

RCS is now available in the Messages app on Android, and it can be used by everyone globally. This technology brings modern chat features to the traditional SMS. Similar to Apple's iMessage, Google Messages has been upgraded to “send and receive better quality photos and videos, chat over Wi-Fi or data, know when your message is read, share reactions, and enjoy more dynamic and engaging group chats.”

It's more like a WhatsApp experience but on the Messages app. RCS will be provided by either your carrier or directly by Google. You can check if RCS is enabled by opening the settings menu on the Messages app, and looking for “chat features.” Here, you can enable chat features, read receipts and typing indicators.

Google also plans to bring end-to-end encryption to RCS conversations.

“End-to-end encryption ensures that no one, including Google and third parties, can read the content of your messages as they travel between your phone and the phone of the person you're messaging,” Drew Rowny, Product Lead, Messages, said in a blog post.

Google Messages app beta testers will receive end-to-end encryption starting this month. This will only work when both parties have the Messages app installed and with the chat features turned on.